Product Review

Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines

Introduction

The Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines are designed as a direct replacement for the stock lines that pass pressurized fuel from the fuel line (located along the driver’s side frame rail) to the fuel rail and return excess fuel from the fuel pressure regulator to the return line (also located along the driver’s side frame rail). The fuel lines are a combination of hard (steel) and soft (rubber), employ specialized fittings, and are unique to the Turbo Regal. The fuel lines are a product of Classic Tube and TRSource.com purchased them through Kirban Performance Products. As of this writing, the fuel lines retail for $95.00 each or are available as a set for $180.00. OEM-equivalent steel versions are also available at a $30.00 cost savings but should not be considered except for concours restoration purposes.

Description

The hard line portion is constructed of Grade 304 stainless steel (meeting ASTM A249 specifications). The soft line is constructed of a reinforced fluoroelastomer/nitrile blend (meeting SAE J30R9 specifications). The soft line is attached to the hard line by a mechanical crimp that is similar, but not an exact match, for the factory crimp. Figure 1 shows the feed and return lines. Figure 2 shows the soft lines, crimps, and fittings for the frame rail fuel line. Figure 3 shows the fittings that attach to the fuel rail and fuel pressure regulator.

Figure 1 – Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines

Figure 2 – Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines - Soft Line and Frame Rail Fittings

Figure 3 – Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines - Soft Line and Fuel Rail Fittings

Installation

Exercise extreme caution when installing the Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines. Disconnect the battery, work only in a well-ventilated area, use lighting approved for an explosive environment, and keep a suitable fire extinguisher nearby. Ensure the fuel lines are tightened properly and that no leaks are present after installation.

Installation of the Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines requires significant disassembly of the front of the Turbo Regal engine. (consult the appropriate service manual for details). No instructions are provided. The air filter, mass airflow meter assembly, and intake ducting should be removed. Wiring should be disconnected and the alternator removed. The air conditioning compressor can be loosened and placed out of the way to facilitate removal of the large accessory mounting bracket. The power steering pump can remain attached to this bracket and there is no need to disconnect the air conditioning or power steering lines. Removing the upper radiator hose and thermostat bypass hose will greatly improve access for removing and replacing the fuel lines.

Findings

The Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines are well-made components with exceptional fit and finish. Installation was straight forward and no modifications, special procedures or specialty tools were required. The fuel lines can be installed by anyone with average mechanical ability and basic SAE and metric hand tools. New O-rings are provided for the fuel rail and fuel pressure regulator fittings but not for the frame rail fittings. The frame rail fittings require one 3/8” (fuel supply) and one 5/16” (fuel return) Viton (fuel compatible) O-rings. These O-rings should be replaced when the fuel lines are installed and are available at local auto parts retailers.

Additional Findings

Installing the fuel lines requires significant disassembly and the following maintenance or performance upgrades can be addressed with little additional effort:

Results

The Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines are properly sized for the Turbo Regal LC2 engine and should provide sufficient fuel for all but the most extreme engine combinations. The vehicles fuel pressure should be verified immediately after installation. TRSource.com will monitor the performance of the fuel lines while in service on our development vehicle and report any issues on our web site.

Conclusions

The Stainless Steel Fuel Feed and Return Lines are well constructed and install on the Turbo Regal with no issues. If the fuel lines are properly installed and routed, they should perform well for many years – the limiting factor being the soft line portions of the fuel lines that are subject to aging and degradation by aggressive fuel blends.